Silent Signals in the Math Classroom

[00:00]
Interviewer: We have a number of silent signals in the class. This is just the sign for me too. This is the sign for, “I have an answer.” These silent signals are another way for students to stay engaged, and to be able to say something without blurting out and maybe interrupting either myself or another student who’s talking.
It lets us know that they are thinking. When they’re thinking I like them to actually touch their brain or they can do this. There’s also a silent cheer in our class. It’s basically this, to tell someone they’ve done a good job. But I’ve also used it to help alleve that disappointment of when you’re not chosen.
‘Cuz when everybody’s hand is up or everybody’s giving the signal, they have the answer, and they’re not called on. There could be that moment of disappointment, and that I’m not listening. I’ve tried to create a culture of if someone else is chosen that our immediate thought is cheer for that person, and then they’re focused in on whoever is going to be sharing.
[End of Audio]

Saved in Your Lesson Planner

Scheduled in Your Lesson Planner

License This Tch Video on Your Site

Request more information about licensing

Teaching Channel's videos ​help teachers get better at teaching--no matter where they are in their careers.​ By licensing our videos, your users get unlimited access to these unparalleled tools for a period of one year. To request more information: